If you’ve ever walked into the bathroom and found water spilling out of your toilet, you know it’s not a fun surprise. A toilet overflow can cause a mess, damage your flooring, and even lead to bigger plumbing problems if not handled properly. But don’t worry! I’m here to walk you through how to manage this situation safely and quickly.
At Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air, we’ve been helping families in Montgomery, Auburn-Opelika, and Columbus, GA, since 1908. We understand how stressful plumbing problems can be, and we’re here to help.
Step 1: Stop the Flow of Water
The first thing to do when your toilet overflows is to stop the water from spilling out.
- Find the shut-off valve: Look behind the toilet for a small valve connected to the wall. Turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.
- No valve? No problem: If you can’t find the shut-off valve or it doesn’t work, lift the lid off the toilet tank. Pull the float (the plastic ball or cup) up to stop the water from filling the tank.
Stopping the water quickly can save you a lot of cleanup later.
Step 2: Clean Up the Mess
Overflowing toilet water isn’t just water—it can contain bacteria and germs. It’s important to clean it up right away to keep your home safe.
- Wear gloves: Protect your hands by wearing rubber gloves.
- Mop or soak up the water: Use towels or a mop to soak up the water.
- Disinfect the area: Clean the floor and surrounding areas with a disinfectant to kill germs and prevent odors.
Dispose of any towels or materials used to clean up in a sealed plastic bag.
Step 3: Find the Cause of the Overflow
Figuring out why your toilet overflowed is the key to preventing it from happening again. Here are a few common causes:
- A clogged toilet: Too much toilet paper or items that shouldn’t be flushed can block the drain.
- A faulty float: If the float isn’t working properly, it can cause the tank to overfill.
- Sewer line issues: A more serious problem, like a clog in your sewer line, can also lead to overflows.
Once you identify the cause, you can decide on the best solution.
Step 4: Clear the Clog
If a clog caused the overflow, you might be able to fix it yourself.
- Use a plunger: A plunger is your first line of defense. Make sure the rubber part covers the drain completely, then push and pull firmly to loosen the clog.
- Try a toilet auger: If the plunger doesn’t work, a toilet auger (also called a plumber’s snake) can reach deeper into the drain to remove blockages.
If these tools don’t solve the problem, it’s time to call a professional.
Step 5: Call the Experts
Sometimes a toilet overflow is more than a quick DIY fix. If the issue is caused by a sewer line blockage, damaged pipes, or recurring clogs, it’s best to call in the pros.
At Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air, we’ve been trusted by families for over 100 years to handle plumbing emergencies quickly and efficiently. Our team of skilled technicians can diagnose the problem and provide lasting solutions to prevent future overflows.
Tips to Prevent Toilet Overflows
Prevention is always better than dealing with a mess. Here are some simple tips to keep your toilet in good working order:
- Watch what you flush: Only flush toilet paper and waste. Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, or feminine products.
- Teach proper toilet use: Make sure everyone in your household knows what can and can’t go in the toilet.
- Schedule regular plumbing maintenance: Professional inspections can catch small issues before they become big problems.
Why Choose Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air?
Since 1908, we’ve been proud to serve families in Montgomery, Auburn-Opelika, and Columbus, GA. We’re family-owned and operated, and we treat every customer like part of our family. With a reputation for top-notch service and reliable solutions, you can trust us to take care of your plumbing needs.
When you’re dealing with toilet overflow troubles, don’t stress! Give us a call, and we’ll make sure your home is safe and sound.
Contact Us Today
Need help with a toilet overflow or other plumbing issue? Call Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air today. Our expert technicians are ready to help you handle any plumbing problem with care and professionalism.
Stop worrying about overflows and let us take care of it for you!
